In this episode, co-hosts Fran, Tom and Leon Leon share an honest catch-up on their wellbeing journeys—touching on everything from cutting out sugar and walking more, to the power of behaviour change and building new habits that support a healthy brain.

Later in the show, we welcome the inspiring Rosie Whittington, founder of the Me To You Dementia Day Centre, who shares her story as a mental health nurse turned innovative care leader, championing holistic, person-centred support for people living with dementia.

You’ll hear practical tips, a deep dive into how environment and community shape our health, and real-life stories about adapting, persevering, and finding joy and purpose—no matter where you are on your dementia journey.

Plus, we round off with Reminiscence Corner, reflecting on skill-building and the importance of social connection.

Whether you’re living with dementia, caring for someone who is, or passionate about wellbeing, there’s something here for everyone.

Mentioned in the podcast & links to further reading:

• Hydration & diet for brain health — Practical, evidence‑based tips on cutting free sugar, choosing whole foods and keeping well hydrated to support cognition and lower dementia risk; useful guidance for older people and carers. https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/eat-well/eating-well-with-dementia/

• Bredesen’s “reversal” approach — Overview of Dr Dale Bredesen’s metabolic protocol and case series: intriguing but preliminary and controversial, not yet established as mainstream treatment. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25414524/

• Problem Adaptation Therapy (PAT) — A short‑term, home‑based behavioural intervention for depression with cognitive impairment that reduces symptoms and improves function in trials. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25821902/

00:00 Water, Walking, and Dementia Care

05:41 TV Presenter Faces Health Challenge

11:11 Behavioral Science and Habit Building

17:15 Implementation Intention Strategies

23:12 Supporting Dementia Care at Home

27:31 "Empowering Patient Involvement"

34:03 Breathwork: Transformative Journey to Wellness

39:19 Golf Rediscovery Through Scientific Approach

45:35 Connecting Evidence for Effective Dementia Care

48:57 Reddit's Role in AI and Research

53:43 Promoting Supportive Society Mindset

01:02:41 Motivational Research Impact

01:04:31 Community Connection Reduces Dementia Risk

If you’re new here, this is the episode we recommend starting with. In this special kick-off to Series 2, co-hosts Leon, Fran and Tom interview Cherylnn Harper — described as the 'Fairy Godmother' of the podcast, she kickstarted the supportive Dementia community that Fran and Tom are part of.

This episode is all about fresh beginnings and real-life inspiration. Leon explains the renewed mission of the podcast: sharing powerful stories and practical strategies for behavior change, whether you’re facing mild cognitive decline or living with dementia.

With moving, personal accounts—Tom talks about returning to golf this summer, working in a pub, and cycling long distances, 8 years on from diagnosis; Fran shares how quick diagnosis and positive support expand her years of “living well”; and Cherylnn, reveals how community groups like Sedgemoor are transforming lives.

Listeners will hear about:

The importance of laughter, activity, and camaraderie in daily life with dementia.

How behaviour changes—like diet, social connections, and mental engagement—make a difference.

The power of peer support both for those living with dementia and the carers who support them.

Why tackling isolation and embracing community can be life-changing.

How the show will keep digging into the latest research, personal stories, and expert advice to help everyone “fight dementia” together.

If you want to learn about living positively with dementia, get science-backed advice, or simply feel part of an uplifting, no-nonsense community, you’re in the right place.

We can’t wait for you to join our journey—starting right here with Season 2, Episode 1!